The Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute: Sleep Health is recruiting participants for a study examining how different digital devices impact children's sleep. Led by Chief Investigator Professor Sean Cain, the SPARK Study (Screens, Physiology, Rest, Kids) invites Adelaide families with children aged 8 to 10 to join the research.
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Dr. Malisa Burge, a co-investigator, noted that while it is known that using screens before bedtime affects sleep, not all screens are equal. "Light emitted by these devices can interfere with the body's internal clock and suppress melatonin, the hormone that signals it's night time and prepares us for sleep," she stated.
The SPARK Study will compare a standard tablet with a Daylight Computer, which is designed to emit less of the light wavelengths that disrupt sleep patterns. Participants will engage in a three-week program where children will use either a tablet or the Daylight Computer before bedtime on three evenings each week. They will alternate between nights without screens and nights using an iPad for one hour and a Daylight Computer on subsequent nights.
To assess melatonin levels, participants will need to provide saliva samples four times each evening, with an additional sample taken after the child falls asleep. Sleep data will be collected through a watch and a sleep mat placed under the mattress. Parents will assist their children in tracking sleep quality and answering questions about feelings.
A researcher will visit each home prior to the study to explain the procedures and address any questions. The study, approved by the Flinders University HREC (#9656), is funded by the Daylight Computer Company, which is not involved in its conduct or analysis. Families participating in the SPARK study will receive compensation of up to $150.